New Plant Products - RIRDC Completed Projects in 2003--2004 & Research in Progress as at June 2005

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RIRDC Completed Projects in 2004-2005 & Research in Progress as at June 2005
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To New Plant Products Completed Projects

1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS – RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

PROJECT NO. PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION

1. Native Foods

CSL-24A Improving harvest quality of native food crops Dr Maarten Ryder (08) 8303 8534 CSIRO Land and Water

DAV-211A Food safety standards and labelling for native plant foods Dr Robert Premier (03) 9210 9225 Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

UA-68A Water relations of parasitic quandong and acacia host species Dr Jennifer Watling (08) 8303 6208 The University of Adelaide

UCS-29A Functional properties of Australian bushfoods Dr. Jian Zhao (02) 6933 2968 Charles Sturt University

UWA-86A Development of new root vegetable crops from Southern Western Australia's diverse tuberous flora Dr Geoff Woodall (08) 9892 8427 University of Western Australia

DAW-108A Commercialisation of boab tubers Mr Peter Johnson (08) 9166 4000 Department of Agriculture (WA)

2. Culinary Herbs, Spices and Beverages

AUC-4A Developing best management practices and resolving minor permit issues for the Australian herb and spice industry Mrs Jane Parker (07) 5483 2196 Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association Ltd

CAU-2A Improving harvesting, processing and marketing of Australian capers Mr Jonathon Trewartha (08) 8569 2360 The Australian Caper Company Pty Ltd

DAN-227A Production of high quality export green tea through integrated management Dr. Vong Nguyen (02) 4348 1927 NSW Department of Primary Industries

DAQ-301A Northern Australia cocoa development (Stage 2) Mr Craig Lemin (07) 4064 1170 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

DAQ-309A Influence of processing on the flavour of Australian coffee Dr. James Drinnan (07) 4048 4647 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

DAQ-313A Developing better nutritional strategies for mechanical tea production Dr. James Drinnan (07) 4048 4647 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

SAG-5A Development of a range of pesticides for use in coffee Mr Keith Lewis (07) 4091 3253 Serve-Ag Pty Ltd

US-136A Australian paprika: breeding & industry development Prof Peter Sharp (02) 9351 8803 The University of Sydney

3. Extractive and Fibre Crops

UCQ-17A Laying the groundwork for a new rural industry - Stevia rebaudiana Prof David Midmore (07) 4930 9770 Central Queensland University

DAN-206A Evaluation of jojoba germplasm in different environments Mr Peter Milthorpe (02) 6895 1016 NSW Department of Primary Industries

DAN-237A Harvest timing, sensory analysis and shelf life for optimal olive oil quality Dr Rod Mailer (02) 6938 1818 NSW Department of Primary Industries

DAN-239A A survey of Australian olive cultivars to determine compliance to international standards Dr Rod Mailer (02) 6938 1818 NSW Department of Primary Industries

DAQ-292A Evaluation of hemp and kenaf breeding lines in tropical and sub-tropical environments Mr Brett Weeden (07) 4093 8303 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

UA-65A Cross-pollination in olive cultivars Prof Margaret Sedgley (08) 8303 7249 The University of Adelaide

UCS-32A Production of bioactive phenols from olive processing waste streams Dr. Paul Prenzler (02) 6933 2540 Charles Sturt University

UCS-33A Quality enhancement of Australian extra-virgin olive oils Dr. Paul Prenzler (02) 6933 2540 Charles Sturt University

UCS-37A Management of Fusarium oxysporum in jojoba plantations Dr Gavin Ash (02) 6933 2765 Charles Sturt University

UWA-74A New oilseed options for Australian farmers and industry Dr Clive Francis (08) 9380 1878 University of Western Australia

UWA-87A Marketing of alternative oilseeds Dr Clive Francis (08) 9380 1878 University of Western Australia

UWS-20A Recycling solid waste from olive oil extraction process Dr N G Nair (02) 4570 1332 University of Western Sydney

4. Fruit, Vegetables and Nuts

DAQ-289A Floral manipulation and canopy management in rambutan and longan Mr. Yan Diczbalis (07) 4064 1128 Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)

DNT-31A Product description languages and support material for minor tropical crops in northern Australia Mr Geoff Walduck (08) 8999 2219 Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT)

US-125A A field evaluation of the productivity of hazelnut varieties Mr. Basil Baldwin (02) 6360 5562 The University of Sydney

5. Grains and Pulses

UWA-73A Investigation into legumes with pharmaceutical and aquaculture potential Dr Shao Fang Wang (08) 9222 3040 University of Western Australia

1. Native Foods

Project Title: Improving harvest quality of native food crops

RIRDC Project No.: CSL-24A

Start Date: 01/07/2004

Finish Date: 31/08/2007

Researcher: Dr Maarten Ryder

Organisation: CSIRO Land and Water

Phone: (08) 8303 8534

Fax: (08) 8303 8684

Email: maarten.ryder@csiro.au

Objectives ·1 This project aims to identify the main quality criteria for produce (fruits, nuts, leaves) of key native food species and provide information for development of product description language; also to harvest produce from native food trials established in RIRDC project CSL-11A and record yield; to assess native food produce quality as influenced by climatic and soil variation (i.e. trial site location); to identify causes and test methods for control of major soil borne diseases of quandong and other native food plants; communication of results and findings to the native food industry.

Current Progress In this project we are continuing research on cultivation of native food species in south-eastern Australia. In 2001 field trials were established in a preceding RIRDC project. The results were communicated at the New Crops conference held in Gatton, September 2004. In addition the final report was published on-line by RIRDC. We have continued the monitoring of these field trials via data collection in November 2004 and May/June 2005. Some species have been harvested (muntries, bush tomato, Acacia) and others are beginning to bear fruit (riberry, lemon aspen). We have collected yield data at most of the 9 trial sites and have listed, for each site, the species which are very likely to provide harvestable native produce. Native food produce quality standards that are recognized across the industry (excluding Macadamia) do not currently exist. A workshop involving industry and research participants was held in Adelaide in February 2005 to begin the process of describing produce quality and to identify the kind of published materials that will be helpful to the native food industry. A native food website was re-launched in September 2004 (CSIRO and RIRDC) after substantial modification and editing. Project staff are also part of the steering committee for the national peak body for native foods.

Project Title: Food safety standards and labelling for native plant foods

RIRDC Project No.: DAV-211A

Start Date: 01/07/2004

Finish Date: 31/06/2006

Researcher: Dr Robert Premier

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries

Phone: (03) 9210 9225

Fax: (03) 9800 3521

Email: Robert.premier@dpi.vic.gov.au

Objectives ·2 The first aim is to assist the industry to meet the requirements of the new food safety standards legislation. The second aim is to provide advice to industry on labelling requirements and on opportunities to use labelling to convey the authenticity of their product.

Current Progress A comprehensive report has been written, this report covers all the work done to-date in preparing the workbooks and training courses. This report will be used as a template for the final report. The evaluation forms from the four training courses delivered late last year have been reviewed and small changes have been made to the training workshops in order to improve the efficiency of delivery. Workshop workbooks have been completed and made available to industry. Negotiations are currently being held to deliver two more workshops to bush foods producers in Australia, the negotiations are being held through two industry bodies. A review of legislative requirements related to bush foods has been completed.
Work is continuing on an easy to use report on the requirements of food safety legislation in each state and how different members of the industry (eg pickers, growers, sellers, and processors) can meet those requirements.
A report on labelling requirements and on opportunities to use labelling to convey authenticity of products is being produced for industry.

Project Title: Water relations of parasitic quandong and acacia host species

RIRDC Project No.: UA-68A

Start Date: 01/11/2004

Finish Date: 30/11/2005

Researcher: Dr Jennifer Watling

Organisation: The University of Adelaide

Phone: (08) 8303 6208

Fax: (08) 8303 6222

Email: jennifer.watling@adelaide.edu.au

Objectives ·3 Quantification of water and nutrient relations, and gas exchange characteristics of the quandong: acacia association across seasons and with 8 different acacia host species.

Current Progress Due to delays in the allocation of funding for this work, initial planning did not commence until March 2005. Experimental work on the project will commence in June with the first field trip to the Arid Lands Botanic Garden at Pt Augusta, SA. The aim of this trip is to assess performance of quandong on a range of Acacia hosts during winter. On this trip we will measure pre-dawn and midday water potentials of quandong and 8 different Acacia host species. We will also measure photosynthesis, stomatal conductance and transpiration using gas-exchange techniques, and collect leaf material for nutrient analysis. Plant stress will also be assessed using chlorophyll fluorescence techniques. A similar trip is planned for the summer season early in 2006.

Project Title: Functional properties of Australian bushfoods

RIRDC Project No.: UCS-29A

Start Date: 01/02/02

Finish Date: 30/06/06

Researcher: Dr Jian Zhao

Organisation:

Charles Sturt University
School of Wine and Food Sciences
Locked Bag 588
Wagga Wagga NSW 2678

Phone: (02) 6933 2968

Fax: (02) 6933 2107

Email: jzhao@csu.edu.au

Objectives To promote market growth and enhance profitability of the Australian bushfood industry by: ·4 generating reliable data on the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of bushfoods to add on to the existing knowledge and anecdotal information on their functionality;
·5 expanding the application of bushfoods using the research outcomes; and
·6 developing antimicrobial, antioxidant and emulsifying agents of commercial grade for use as natural substitutes for their synthetic counterparts.

Current Progress Significant progress has been made in the project over the past 12 months. We have completed the work on studying the emulsifying properties of wattle seeds. We have prepared aqueous extracts from wattle seeds and used the extracts to make emulsions with varying proportions of oil and water. The emulsifying properties of the extracts were examined under a range of food processing conditions, including homogenising pressure, pH, ionic strength and temperature. Results show that wattle seed extracts have strong emulsifying capacities and the emulsions formed are stable under typical food processing conditions and have excellent thermal stability. These results indicate that wattle seed extracts could be a promising natural emulsifying agent applicable to a variety of food products. Furthermore, we have isolated and fractionated wattle seed proteins using water, alcohol and dilute acid sequentially, and characterised their properties using a number of techniques, including capillary electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE and differential scanning calorimetry. Results show that wattle seed protein consists of a wide array of polypeptides with the majority being found in the alcohol fraction. We have also made progress in identifying the active components that are responsible for the antioxidant properties of native plant foods and work in this area is continuing.

Project Title: Development of new root vegetable crops from Southern Western Australia's diverse tuberous flora

RIRDC Project No.: UWA-86A

Start Date: 1/12/2004

Finish Date: 30/11/2008

Researcher: Dr Geoff Woodall

Organisation: Centre of Excellence in NRM, University of Western Australia, Albany

Phone: (08) 9892 8427

Fax: (08) 9841 2707

Email: gwoodall@agric.wa.gov.au

Objectives ·1 This project aims to systematically assess the horticultural potential of southern Western Australia’s diverse tuberous flora and commence commercialization of promising species as new vegetable crops.

Current Progress The flora of Western Australia contains an extraordinary number of species that form root tubers. Product, product utilisation and horticultural attributes of tuberous species were assessed leading to the selection of three species for further study: Platysace deflexa (Apiaceae), Ipomoea calobra (Convolvulaceae) and Haemodorum spicatum (Haemodoraceae). One other species may be added if further exploration is successful. Product appraisal is ongoing but limited by supply, that is, a lack of cultivated product. A commercialisation strategy is currently being developed for each target species. Prior to this project it was not known what conditions were needed for tuber formation, or how long tuber formation takes and what the yield of tubers would be? The most encouraging result so far has related to tuber formation and yield. Cultivated Platysace deflexa (Apiaceae) and Ipomoea calobra (Convolvulaceae) have produced numerous "marketable" tubers in less than 18 months. The first low input, field cultivated (unirrigated) plants of Platysace deflexa yielded approximately 1kg of marketable product per plant suggesting that a planting density of 2,000-4,000 stems per hectare would yield 2-4t of marketable product per hectare. Product harvested from cultivated plants was sweeter than product harvested from wild plants. A market for Haemodorum spicatum (Haemodoraceae) as a spice has been identified and cultivation studies have commenced.

Project Title: Commercialisation of boab tubers

RIRDC Project No.: DAW-108A

Start Date: 01/07/2003

Finish Date: 30/06/2005

Researcher: Mr Peter Johnson

Organisation: Department of Agriculture (WA)

Phone: (08) 9166 4000

Fax: (08) 9166 4066

Email: pjohnson@agric.wa.gov.au

Objectives ·7 Identify potential market placement for boab and promote the Boab's roots and leaves through marketers and restaurants and other media such as television
·8 Identify a range of culinary uses for the product
·9 To liaise with potential industry participants formulating a market strategy to launch the product into the mainstream market
·10 Identify techniques to improve seed germination
·11 Identify the best practise techniques for mechanisation of the boab crop, including optimum planting densities

Current Progress A number of media outlets including television, radio, magazine and newspaper articles have been presented creating a wider awareness of the new product.
Tests were conducted to find the best seed germination techniques for this particular crop. A technique of scarification has been undertaken that has increased the germination by up to 70% if not more after the seed is graded.
The Trial Cropping of the plant has identified the best mechanised methods for planting and indicated the opportunities for mechanical harvesting.
The marketing phase of the product development has brought together a number of industry players from market agents, to businesses, restaurants and media contacts.
A number of food industry people have been experimenting with potential uses of the product including processing a recipe booklet has been developed containing many of the new uses.
A promotional program is currently being developed with several leading retail outlets, this will include in store demonstrations. Work is also being conducted developing the supply chain for the product.

2. Culinary herbs, spices and beverages

Project Title: Developing best management practices and resolving minor permit issues for the Australian herb and spice industry

RIRDC Project No.: AUC-4A

Start Date: 01/07/2004

Finish Date: 01/12/2006

Researcher: Jane Parker

Organisation: Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association Ltd

Phone: (07) 5483 2195

Fax: (07) 5483 2196

Email: qjcparker@bigpond.com

Objectives ·1 To establish and develop a toolbox of minor use permits on herb & spice crops suitable for both domestic and export markets in line with integrated pest management (IPM) strategies across all production systems

Current Progress A review of the Australian Pesticide & Veterinary Medicine’s (APVMA) management of minor use permits has assisted the project move forward in a timely manner. Continual ongoing liaison with APVMA has resulted in 35 applications underway for crop protectants which have existing permits in vegetable or similar crops either in Australia or overseas. A further 34 are being assessed for future application and 24 new chemistry products are also being investigated by this project.
This large number of crop protectants has been specifically picked to assist in the implementation of IPM strategies and Resistance Management Strategies (RMS) across the major pests and diseases affecting Australian grown Herbs & Spices
A National Residue Survey program has been initiated to allow easier access to export markets. Crop protectants have been applied and these crops will be randomly tested for adherence to current FSANZ standards. Once a certificate of compliance is issued these products are then ready for export.
An industry web site has been developed with a quarterly member’s newsletter to disseminate information as it becomes available.
To assist in the development of best management practices and further information dissemination, IPM and RMS strategies and water & post harvest management updates, will be available at a conference workshop to be held on September 12^th in Brisbane.

Project Title: Improving harvesting, processing and marketing of Australian capers

RIRDC Project No.: CAU-2A

Start Date: 01/07/2004

Finish Date: 01/07/2005

Researcher: Mr Jonathon Trewartha

Organisation: The Australian Caper Company Pty Ltd

Phone: (08) 8569 2360

Fax: (08) 8569 2360

Email: enquiries@australiancapers.com.au

Objectives ·2 To further understand the current Australian market for caper products.

Current Progress Three key areas for research this year have been focussed on; price of product, continuity of supply and, reduction of unit labour cost.
Market research is currently being undertaken to gain an understanding of the market and pricing of capers. This survey is being completed by consumers in the form of a questionnaire which is distributed with Australian Caper products through retail outlets and offers an incentive offered to return completed surveys. Consumers can select whether to complete the survey online at www.australiancapers.com.au or via a hard copy to be returned by mail. In addition a tasting of capers at the Adelaide Market is also being conducted in conjunction with the survey. Wholesalers and distributors are being surveyed via a telephone questionnaire or in face to face interviews. This is progressing well and is producing useful information. This information is being used to define the domestic market and estimate how many locally produced capers it can sustain.
The sorting plant has been designed based on a tested prototype. The final design is currently being built to specification. It will be trialed in June. A mechanised sorting machine will significantly reduce the labour cost of sorting while maintaining the product appearance. The picking costs on the three year old plants have reduced this year and are expected to fall further as the plants mature.
Two separate information flyers have been developed. One flyer is used to promote Australian capers to wholesalers and retailers and is usually displayed alongside Australian Caper products on retail shelves. A flyer to promote and encourages growers has been designed in preparation for distribution before the field day that is being hosted this year.

Project Title: Production of high quality export green tea through integrated management

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-227A

Start Date: 14/08/2004

Finish Date: 30/11/2007

Researcher: Dr Vong Nguyen

Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries
Gosford Horticultural Institute
Locked Bag 26
GOSFORD NSW 2250

Phone: (02) 4348 1927

Fax: (02) 4348 1910

Email: vong.nguyen@agric.nsw.gov.au

Objectives · To determine the feasibility of different propagation, establishment and cultivation methods on green tea production, weed management and insect and disease management.

Current Progress The project is progressing well. We successfully completed all green tea harvests (September – March) upon which several shading experiments have been conducted. Shade cloth of different grades shaded mature green plants of different green tea varieties for different lengths of time before harvest. The individual lots were processed separately and green tea quality assessed. As expected, the results showed there were significant differences in tea quality between the harvest times from September to March 2005. In addition the shade treatments were beneficial in improving final tea quality. This was particularly the case with the first harvest, high shade treatment. This will be further investigated this coming growing season. The propagation trials have commenced with experiments established to examine the effect of pot-type and the timing of propagation on cutting survival and necessity for winter propagation bed heating. Regular pest and disease monitoring is providing monthly reports during the season on the pest status of the plantation at Somersby. New varieties have been propagated and will be planted in the trial plantation. The project has been in regular contact with other researchers and industry around Australia. The project team will be visiting the Victorian green tea industry and Ito En (a Japanese green tea company processing the green tea in Victoria) in June 2005 to discuss the project, co-operation and the Australian green tea industry.

Project Title: Northern Australia Cocoa Development (Stage 2)

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-301A

Start Date: 01/07/2005

Finish Date: 30/11/2005

Researcher: Mr Craig Lemin

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries
Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture
PO Box 20
SOUTH JOHNSTONE QLD 4859

Phone: (07) 4064 1170

Fax: (07) 4064 2249

Email: craig.lemin@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives ·3 The feasibility and economics of cocoa production in northern Australia will continue to be investigated. Yield potential of PNG hybrids will be assessed in two potential growing regions (tropical Northern Territory and north Queensland). Several clones will be imported and maintained for preliminary evaluation. Agronomic aspects of production in northern Australia will be recorded and management guidelines developed. Technology for mechanization of pod splitting and bean extraction will be developed. Labour requirements for cultural operations (particularly harvesting) will be assessed. Information gathered will allow refinement of the cocoa economic model and provide a decision support for assessing economic viability of cocoa production in northern Australia.

Current Progress The project has continued with reinvigoration of support from Cadbury Schweppes and amidst commercialization activities by Cocoa Australia Pty Ltd.
An independent review of the project was commissioned by RIRDC and DPI&F in December 2004. The review found that good technical progress had been made in the project but this information had limited commercial value and the financial proposition for cocoa production was marginal based on cocoa commodity price outlook and estimated production costs. Nonetheless, key recommendations from the review are a) support on-going monitoring of the current cocoa trials to determine the yield profile to maturity; b) further develop the pod splitter and commercialize; c) make knowledge and know-how available to an emerging industry in a way that is acceptable to the collaborators; d) wind-up the alliance of collaborators and form new alliances as appropriate focused on achieving commercial outcomes so as to attract additional government and commercial investment.
A meeting of project collaborators and Cocoa Australia was held in Brisbane in April 2005 in an attempt to get some shared dialogue. The important decisions at the meeting were a) agreement to submit a full R&D proposal to RIRDC to continue the Qld. Based trials for a further 2 years until July 2007 (with Cadbury support); b) ceasing full evaluation of the NT trial at July 2005 with only strategic harvests conducted until December 2005 using carry over funds; c) agreement that DPI&F enter a contract with Cocoa Australia for the provision of growing and establishment information and advice; d) agreement for material from the program to be made available to Cocoa Australia under provisions of Material Transfer Agreements; e) DPI&F/Cadbury to develop options for processing beans from Cadbury-linked pilot commercialization trials in the Innisfail district; f) future R&D activities be considered as either "generic" versus "commercial in confidence" and for DPI&F to broker collaboration with industry interests as appropriate; g) future R&D activities with RIRDC performed on the basis of an industry R&D strategic plan; h) conduct a "forum" bringing together industry interests to brief them on developments and examine constraints and opportunities.

Project Title: Influence of processing on the flavour of Australian coffee

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-309A

Start Date: 01/07/2003

Finish Date: 01/07/2006

Researcher: James Drinnan

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries

Phone: (07) 4048 4647

Fax: (07) 4092 3593

Email: james.drinnan@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives ·1 Conduct an audit of the processing equipment and system currently being employed by the industry.
·2 Determine the influence of various processing techniques on the flavour profile of Australian coffee.
·3 Improve the understanding of coffee growers to the importance of the stages of processing in determining quality.

Current Progress During the 2004 coffee harvesting and processing season (July –November) processed coffee samples were collected from several coffee growers located in North Queensland and northern New South Wales. About seven processing styles were collected from each of five properties.
The samples collected fall into the following styles.
Washed - Fruit is pulped and there is complete mechanical removal of the mucilage. This can be achieved with an aquapulper or demucilager. In these samples there is no fermentation. Two of the farms in the trial use aquapulpers and three use demucilagers. The samples were oven dried.
Semi Washed - Fruit is pulped and there is partial removal of the mucilage. This can be achieved with an aquapulper or demucilager. The coffee was then oven dried.
Unwashed - Fruit is pulped but no mucilage is removed by mechanical means (i.e. washed). The coffee can then be dried like this or the mucilage can be partially or fully removed by fermenting in water. Samples of the three possible products were collected and oven dried.
Natural – Fruit is dried in the flesh (no pulping). This can occur on the tree when the fruit overmatures and dries on the tree (bundi) or after harvest where red fruit is dried in the sun, or mechanically in ovens. In this case fermentation occurs as the fruit dries. Flesh is removed during hulling. It was necessary to remove the green immature fruit from these samples.
Natural Washed – Fruit that is dried in the flesh (natural) is soaked until soft and then pulped. No samples were collected of this product this year.
Samples of between 50 – 100 kg were collected of each processing style which gave between 10 and 20 kg of green bean. Samples were stored for a couple of months to cure. Samples have been hulled, polished, size graded and sent to a range of professional tasters to evaluate the cupping quality (acidity, aroma, body and flavour).

Project Title: Developing better nutritional strategies for mechanical tea production

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-313A

Start Date: 01/12/2003

Finish Date: 01/12/2006

Researcher: James Drinnan

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries

Phone: (07) 4048 4647

Fax: (07) 4092 3593

Email: james.drinnan@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives ·1 Improve the understanding of tea growers on the nutritional requirements of mechanically harvested tea to maximise yields.
·2 Identify micronutrient deficiencies and the best methods to alleviate.
·3 Increase the average yields of tea producers to help meet the increasing demand; this will also reduce the costs of production.
·4 Improve the efficiency of fertiliser use thereby minimising the environmental impacts of current and future fertiliser practices.

Current Progress Three farms have been selected for the fertiliser trial work. On each farm, two blocks have been chosen which are of similar size, soil type, age, pruning cycle and variety and which can be fertilized and harvested separately. The blocks range in size from 2-13ha. The two blocks on each farm will be used to compare the newly developed fertiliser program with the current fertilising program used on the farm. By conducting the trial work across a few farms, a range in the levels of management can be superimposed on the fertiliser treatments. Information on the growth cycle, yield, leaf and soil nutrient levels are being collected. This information will be used to assess the economics of the new fertiliser program.
In developing a fertiliser program, leaf and soil nutrient levels of tea plantations in North Queensland were collected. Samples were taken from the trial blocks and combined with samples that growers had collected previously. This information gave an idea of the range in levels that exist across the farms. This information together with leaf and soil nutrient levels recommended in the literature for North Queensland and overseas and discussions with soil scientists have allowed optimum nutrient levels to be defined for the nutrient budget. By using a nutrient budget and yield data from the growers, theoretical ideal fertiliser rates have been determined. A study of the growth cycle has allowed optimum frequency and timing of fertiliser applications. The fertiliser mix is being blended by a local fertiliser agent.

Project Title: Development of a range of pesticides for use in coffee

RIRDC Project No.: SAG-5A

Start Date: 01/07/2003

Finish Date: 30/11/2006

Researcher: Mr Keith Lewis

Organisation: Serve-Ag Pty Ltd

Phone: (07) 4091 3253

Fax: (07) 4091 4027

Email: biofield@bigpond.net.au

Objectives ·1 To generate data to support registration submissions for a range of pesticides in coffee.

Current Progress Applications have been lodged with the APVMA for the re issue of permits for Petroleum oil, Basta (Glufosinate), Glyphosate, Copper products, Mimic (Tebufenozide), and Supracide (Methidathion). New permit applications covering Chlorpyrifos and Stomp (Pendimethalin) have similarly been lodged with the APVMA.
Under new data protection legislation, many minor use permits may automatically be transferred to the product labels, and it is likely that most of the above will be covered. Permits are now to be issued for extended periods, and can be renewed after expiry. Thus, no further action will be required with regard to the abovementioned products for the time being.
A number of other products require efficacy and/or residue data before they can be considered for permitted use in coffee. These are Success, Applaud, Prodigy and Admiral. As a result of work conducted under this project, the manufacturers of Success have made a submission to the APVMA for inclusion of coffee on their label. It seems likely that coffee will be included on the Success label in 2005. This might be viewed as an early achievement of this project
Residue work carried out under GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) protocols has commenced for Applaud, Admiral and Prodigy and efficacy work will be conducted as opportunities arise.

Project Title: Australian paprika: breeding & industry development

RIRDC Project No.: US-136A

Start Date: 01/07/2004

Finish Date: 30/11/2007

Researcher: Prof Peter Sharp

Organisation: The University of Sydney

Phone: (02) 9351 8803

Fax: (02) 9351 8875

Email: peters@camden.usyd.edu.au

Objectives ·2 To develop commercial cultivars of Paprika for Australia.

Current Progress During the 2004-2005 season the paprika breeding program ran a Variety and Strain Trial (VS1), and undertook selection of advanced generations, made interspecific and backcrosses, ran an F1 trial, and progressed Single Seed Descent populations from F2, F3, F4 generations, and did commercial trials.
The VS1 trial included three candidates registered for Plant Variety Protection (Cerise Sweet, Sunired and Earlysuni), their parents and as a control the PVR protected cultivar Sz80. Two of the registered lines (Sunired and Earlysuni) were not sufficiently uniform, and were not accepted for PBR. Cerise Sweet performed well and was accepted for PBR. A total of 51 promising lines were included in the VS1 trial to estimate their yield and uniformity. Most of these lines displayed high yield and uniformity and are under laboratory analysis of pigment content for further selection. A considerable number of interspecific crosses and backcrosses were carried out to transfer detachability. Cooperating with Szeged Paprika Research Station, Hungary we obtained 32 F1 lines, which were sown as together with some of the F1s made at The University of Sydney.
Commercial trials of Cerise Sweet and Sunired were located in Victoria by our industrial partner for seed increase and trial oleoresin production.

3. EXTRACTIVE AND FIBRE CROPS

Project Title: Laying the groundwork for a new rural industry - Stevia rebaudiana

RIRDC Project No.: UCQ-17A

Start Date: 01/07/2002

Finish Date: 31/07/2005

Researcher: Prof David Midmore

Organisation: Central Queensland University

Phone: (07) 4930 9770

Fax: (07) 4930 9255

Email: d.midmore@cqu.edu.au

Objectives ·3 To lay the basis for a rural industry that will replace imported artificial sweetener with a risk-free natural sweetener. This will achieved by:
·4 Accessing information on food safety issues and determine the likely acceptance of steviosides by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (formerly ANZFA) for use in foodstuffs.
·5 Accessing germplasm from diverse sources (particularly Japan, Taiwan, China, Korea, India and Paraguay) and test them under a range of environmental conditions, leading to quantifiable production outputs on which to evaluate the viability of the industry.

Current Progress This 2.5year project has now run for 3 years. The major achievement of the last year has been the application to FSANZ (Food Standards Australia New Zealand), by the project, to have steviol glycosides (stevioside) approved as a food ingredient. This application will be considered by FSANZ in 2006. A decision by the WHO/FAO expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) to endorse the safety of steviol glycosides will assist our application.
Agronomic trials identified production difficulties, particularly for tropical areas, to ensure that crops will reliably ratoon with multiple stems and so produce for a second and third year. Time of harvest and possibly height of harvest would appear to be important. This was not a problem in southern latitudes, where shortage of days over 25 degrees C restricted production. Weed control also requires more work and the avoidance of fungal infection, especially sclerotinia, will need care.
Leaf analysis by HPLC still presents problems. Further experience and refinements to sample preparation and filtering procedures are needed for reliable results.
Although there is no funding, work will continue on leaf analysis and crop management to better predict the performance of stevia as a crop. For this, additional seedlings are being produced for more farm plots.

Project Title: Evaluation of jojoba germplasm in different environments

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-206A

Start Date: 01/07/2002

Finish Date: 31/07/2005

Researcher: Mr Peter Milthorpe

Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries

Phone: (02) 6895 1016

Fax: (02) 6895 2688

Email: peter.milthorpe@agric.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 To evaluate the response of flowering and fruiting of a diverse, but known, range of jojoba germplasm to changes in climate across Australia.
·2 To provide benchmarks to assist researchers and growers in the selection of new varieties as well as give confidence in recommending where new selections are best suited.

Current Progress Three years data have now been collected and the data is being collated. Not all data sets are complete as personal circumstances of some co-operators resulted in gaps in the data due to their absence. Drought conditions have been prevalent for much of the study period at all sites, and only two of the sites had restricted irrigation. Consequently plant growth has been less than ideal in some cases.
The initial results show that for the five sites in eastern Australia there is reasonable consistency in expected response from the different germplasm material. Flowering in 2002 was early at all sites and 2003 was late. However, there are some responses that are difficult to interpret, particularly separating the impact of drought from temperature stress.
Generally the germ plasm with the least chill requirement performed more predictably at the northern site than at the other sites whereas the germplasm with the greatest chill requirement was least consistent in its behaviour.
Data analysis is continuing.

Project Title: Harvest timing, sensory analysis and shelf life for optimal olive oil quality

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-237A

Start Date: 01/01/2005

Finish Date: 31/10/2007

Researcher: Dr Rod Mailer

Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries
WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

Phone: (02) 6938 1818

Fax: (02) 6938 1809

Email: rodney.mailer@agric.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 To study the relationship between harvest timing and oil chemical and sensory quality at the time and over time in storage, to determine the optimum harvest periods for the best commercial characteristics.

Current Progress The excellent layout of the orchard, irrigation facilities and cooperation from Rich Glen Olives has seen this project commence with no delays or problems. Irrigation treatments using micro irrigation was commenced in September 2004. The four treatments include full irrigation, partial root zone drying, deficit from February to April, and deficit from February to green maturity and then full irrigation.
There are to be four harvests, two within the normal window of commercial harvesting and a very early and very late harvest to compare the changes with maturity. Sampling commenced in late April with both olive fruit for extraction at Wagga and oil which had been extracted by commercial processing at Rich Glen with their new Westfalia oil processing equipment. The second of four harvests was carried out on 10/5/05.
Samples have been placed into storage at Wagga and will be separated in line with normal commercial processing conditions and analysed as planned for both chemical and organoleptic quality. Rich Glen is monitoring yield and cold process extraction oil content of the olives. The oil will then be tested for normal quality tests in the laboratory but particularly for polyphenols which contribute a major part of the true characteristics of the olives including flavour, colour and shelf life stability.

Project Title: A survey of Australian olive cultivars to determine compliance to international standards

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-239A

Start Date: 01/01/2005

Finish Date: 30/11/2006

Researcher: Dr Rod Mailer

Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries
WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

Phone: (02) 6938 1818

Fax: (02) 6938 1809

Email: rodney.mailer@agric.nsw.gov.au

Objectives ·1 This project aims to survey the chemical profile of the 10 major Australian cultivars to identify cultivars or conditions which contribute to unacceptable oil quality.

Current Progress The design for this experiment has been done in collaboration with the Australian Olive Association. The original application aimed at analyzing the 10 most common cultivars from commercial olive groves within Australia at three environmentally different sites. From further discussion the AOA have nominated 9 cultivars: Arbequina, Barnea, Coratina, Coreggiola, Frantoio, Koroneiki, Leccino, Manzanillo, and Picual
Samples are being sourced from four, rather than three sites. The regions are:
1. Northern NSW and Southern Queensland
2. Western Australia - North of Perth
3. Northern and Central Victoria
4. Southern Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania
Seasonal conditions have resulted in a marked delay in harvesting in 2005. Samples are currently being harvested, packaged and transported overnight to Wagga Wagga. They are processed the next morning and oil stored in sealed containers for analysis. These samples will eventually be analysed for all of the minor components used to detect adulteration in olive oil. Samples from sites 1 and 2 have already been received. Sampling and oil extraction will be completed by June 2005. Analysis, due to the number and complexity of the tests, and the large number of samples (72), will not be complete until August 2005. AOA will pay the pledged funding of $23,242 + GST by May 31.

Project Title: Evaluation of hemp and kenaf breeding lines in tropical and sub-tropical environments

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-292A

Start Date: 01/07/2002

Finish Date: 30/11/2005

Researcher: Mr Brett Weeden

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)
Agronomist
Southedge Research Station
PO Box 174
MAREEBA QLD 4880

Phone: (07) 4093 8303

Fax: (07) 4093 2237

Email: brett.weeden@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives · To facilitate the establishment of a bast fibre industry in Australia by identifying suitable high-yielding low-drug content cultivars of hemp and suitable high-yielding cultivars of kenaf that are adapted to sub-tropical and tropical environments in Quee

Current Progress Replicated field trials of 5 cultivars of kenaf and 7 cultivars of industrial hemp were conducted at 2 QDPI&F research stations during 2004/05.
At Southedge (tropical environment) the kenaf trial was a repeat of the 2003/04 trial with 5 cultivars planted at either 3 or 4 rows on a 1 m bed between 1.5 m wheel tracks. The kenaf grew well and was harvested on 13/4/05. The industrial hemp trial also grew well with the new selection of cultivars giving better yields than those studied in 2002/03. The hemp trial was harvested on 2/3/05.
Both these kenaf and hemp trials were repeated at Gatton research station as representative of a sub-tropical environment. The kenaf trial grew well and was harvested on 27/4/05. The emergence and growth problems experienced in the 2003/04 hemp trial here were overcome and growth and yields were greatly improved. The hemp trial was harvested on 16/3/05.
Final yield data for these trials are yet to be collated and analysed.
Field trials for this project have now been completed with the final report due in November 2005.

Project Title: Cross-pollination in olive cultivars

RIRDC Project No.: UA-65A

Start Date: 01/01/2004

Finish Date: 01/12/2006

Researcher: Prof Margaret Sedgley

Organisation: The University of Adelaide

Phone: (08) 8303 7249

Fax: (08) 8303 7116

Email: margaret.sedgley@adelaide.edu.au

Objectives ·2 To identify compatible pollen donors for the major cultivars grown in Australia

Current Progress Five commercial cultivars, growing in two orchards, were examined to determine which cultivars in the grove were providing pollen and causing fruit set. The cultivars studied were; Kalamata, Corregiola, Barnea, Mission and Koroneiki. Flowering times, weather conditions and pollen vitality were recorded over a two-year period when fruit was collected for analysis. DNA was extracted from the embryos obtained from the fruit. Each embryo was fingerprinted with eight microsatellite markers to identify the pollen donor. Paternity assignment was based on the parental contribution of alleles in the embryo using the ‘most-likely method’. Compatible pollen donors for the five cultivars were identified for 800 embryos collected from a commercial olive grove in the Adelaide hills. Different pollen donors were identified for each of the maternal cultivars indicating that cross-compatibilities and incompatibilities varied between the cultivars studied. Cross-pollination was the principal method of fertilisation, as selfing was observed in only two of the embryos studied and both of these were from the cultivar Mission. Analysis of embryos collected from the same cultivars at the second site is in progress.

Project Title: Production of bioactive phenols from olive processing waste streams

RIRDC Project No.: UCS-32A

Start Date: 01/09/2002

Finish Date: 31/05/2006

Researcher: Dr Paul Prenzler

Organisation: Charles Sturt University
School of Science and Technology
Locked Bag 588
WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678

Phone: (02) 6933 2540

Fax: (02) 6933 2737

Email: pprenzler@csu.eud.au

Objectives To investigate the potential to add value to process waste streams, thereby creating a sustainable and integrated Australian olive industry with a number of product streams. The outcomes will be: · A survey of waste streams from olive oil processing to identify bioactive fractions;
· Isolation, identification and quantification of the commercially useful bioactive compounds;
· Knowledge of the impact of varietal, regional, seasonal and processing differences on the composition of waste streams and the bioactivity, based on Australian conditions;
· The investigation of strategies for the extraction of compounds of commercial interest from olive industry waste streams, thus enabling the re-utilisation of the residue;
· Trained personnel to meet the future demands of the olive industry.

Current Progress A feasibility study in collaboration with another RIRDC project at NSWDPI assessed the effect of varietal, seasonal, and processing variation on the recovery of bioactive phenols. Olive mill waste (OMW) samples from five different olive cultivars at four different harvesting times in the olive oil processing season and samples collected from two phase processing and three phase processing were analysed for their phenolic content and their antioxidant activity. Preliminary data analysis revealed a quantitative change more than a qualitative one that varies amongst cultivars. Fractionation of OMW extracts and screening for biological activities were performed. Antioxidant activity screening using four different bioassays was done. Two fractions demonstrated high antioxidant activities compared with pure standard phenolic antioxidants. Sub-fractionation and separation of the active compounds will be performed by the end of 2005. Antibacterial activity for the crude extracts was not encouraging for further investigations. A critical review article titled "Bioactivity and analysis of biophenols recovered from olive mill waste" was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food chemistry in April 2005. Two other papers are in progress addressing the analysis and recovery of biophenols from OMW.

Project Title: Quality enhancement of Australian extra-virgin olive oils

RIRDC Project No.: UCS-33A

Start Date: 01/09/2002

Finish Date: 31/05/2006

Researcher:

1.1 NEW PLANT PRODUCTS – RESEARCH IN PROGRESS
PROJECT NO.	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION

CSL-24A	Improving harvest quality of native food crops	Dr Maarten Ryder	(08) 8303 8534	CSIRO Land and Water
DAV-211A	Food safety standards and labelling for native plant foods	Dr Robert Premier	(03) 9210 9225	Department of Primary Industries (Vic)
UA-68A	Water relations of parasitic quandong and acacia host species	Dr Jennifer Watling	(08) 8303 6208	The University of Adelaide
UCS-29A	Functional properties of Australian bushfoods	Dr. Jian Zhao	(02) 6933 2968	Charles Sturt University
UWA-86A	Development of new root vegetable crops from Southern Western Australia's diverse tuberous flora	Dr Geoff Woodall	(08) 9892 8427	University of Western Australia
DAW-108A	Commercialisation of boab tubers	Mr Peter Johnson	(08) 9166 4000	Department of Agriculture (WA)

AUC-4A	Developing best management practices and resolving minor permit issues for the Australian herb and spice industry	Mrs Jane Parker	(07) 5483 2196	Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association Ltd
CAU-2A	Improving harvesting, processing and marketing of Australian capers	Mr Jonathon Trewartha	(08) 8569 2360	The Australian Caper Company Pty Ltd
DAN-227A	Production of high quality export green tea through integrated management	Dr. Vong Nguyen	(02) 4348 1927	NSW Department of Primary Industries
DAQ-301A	Northern Australia cocoa development (Stage 2)	Mr Craig Lemin	(07) 4064 1170	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)
DAQ-309A	Influence of processing on the flavour of Australian coffee	Dr. James Drinnan	(07) 4048 4647	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)
DAQ-313A	Developing better nutritional strategies for mechanical tea production	Dr. James Drinnan	(07) 4048 4647	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)
SAG-5A	Development of a range of pesticides for use in coffee	Mr Keith Lewis	(07) 4091 3253	Serve-Ag Pty Ltd
US-136A	Australian paprika: breeding & industry development	Prof Peter Sharp	(02) 9351 8803	The University of Sydney

UCQ-17A	Laying the groundwork for a new rural industry - Stevia rebaudiana	Prof David Midmore	(07) 4930 9770	Central Queensland University
DAN-206A	Evaluation of jojoba germplasm in different environments	Mr Peter Milthorpe	(02) 6895 1016	NSW Department of Primary Industries
DAN-237A	Harvest timing, sensory analysis and shelf life for optimal olive oil quality	Dr Rod Mailer	(02) 6938 1818	NSW Department of Primary Industries
DAN-239A	A survey of Australian olive cultivars to determine compliance to international standards	Dr Rod Mailer	(02) 6938 1818	NSW Department of Primary Industries
DAQ-292A	Evaluation of hemp and kenaf breeding lines in tropical and sub-tropical environments	Mr Brett Weeden	(07) 4093 8303	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)
UA-65A	Cross-pollination in olive cultivars	Prof Margaret Sedgley	(08) 8303 7249	The University of Adelaide
UCS-32A	Production of bioactive phenols from olive processing waste streams	Dr. Paul Prenzler	(02) 6933 2540	Charles Sturt University
UCS-33A	Quality enhancement of Australian extra-virgin olive oils	Dr. Paul Prenzler	(02) 6933 2540	Charles Sturt University
UCS-37A	Management of Fusarium oxysporum in jojoba plantations	Dr Gavin Ash	(02) 6933 2765	Charles Sturt University
UWA-74A	New oilseed options for Australian farmers and industry	Dr Clive Francis	(08) 9380 1878	University of Western Australia
UWA-87A	Marketing of alternative oilseeds	Dr Clive Francis	(08) 9380 1878	University of Western Australia
UWS-20A	Recycling solid waste from olive oil extraction process	Dr N G Nair	(02) 4570 1332	University of Western Sydney

DAQ-289A	Floral manipulation and canopy management in rambutan and longan	Mr. Yan Diczbalis	(07) 4064 1128	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld)
DNT-31A	Product description languages and support material for minor tropical crops in northern Australia	Mr Geoff Walduck	(08) 8999 2219	Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT)
US-125A	A field evaluation of the productivity of hazelnut varieties	Mr. Basil Baldwin	(02) 6360 5562	The University of Sydney

Project Title:	Improving harvest quality of native food crops
RIRDC Project No.:	CSL-24A
Start Date:	01/07/2004
Finish Date:	31/08/2007
Researcher:	Dr Maarten Ryder
Organisation:	CSIRO Land and Water
Phone:	(08) 8303 8534
Fax:	(08) 8303 8684
Email:	maarten.ryder@csiro.au
Objectives	·1 This project aims to identify the main quality criteria for produce (fruits, nuts, leaves) of key native food species and provide information for development of product description language; also to harvest produce from native food trials established in RIRDC project CSL-11A and record yield; to assess native food produce quality as influenced by climatic and soil variation (i.e. trial site location); to identify causes and test methods for control of major soil borne diseases of quandong and other native food plants; communication of results and findings to the native food industry.
Current Progress	In this project we are continuing research on cultivation of native food species in south-eastern Australia. In 2001 field trials were established in a preceding RIRDC project. The results were communicated at the New Crops conference held in Gatton, September 2004. In addition the final report was published on-line by RIRDC. We have continued the monitoring of these field trials via data collection in November 2004 and May/June 2005. Some species have been harvested (muntries, bush tomato, Acacia) and others are beginning to bear fruit (riberry, lemon aspen). We have collected yield data at most of the 9 trial sites and have listed, for each site, the species which are very likely to provide harvestable native produce. Native food produce quality standards that are recognized across the industry (excluding Macadamia) do not currently exist. A workshop involving industry and research participants was held in Adelaide in February 2005 to begin the process of describing produce quality and to identify the kind of published materials that will be helpful to the native food industry. A native food website was re-launched in September 2004 (CSIRO and RIRDC) after substantial modification and editing. Project staff are also part of the steering committee for the national peak body for native foods.

Project Title:	Food safety standards and labelling for native plant foods
RIRDC Project No.:	DAV-211A
Start Date:	01/07/2004
Finish Date:	31/06/2006
Researcher:	Dr Robert Premier
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries
Phone:	(03) 9210 9225
Fax:	(03) 9800 3521
Email:	Robert.premier@dpi.vic.gov.au
Objectives	·2 The first aim is to assist the industry to meet the requirements of the new food safety standards legislation. The second aim is to provide advice to industry on labelling requirements and on opportunities to use labelling to convey the authenticity of their product.
Current Progress	A comprehensive report has been written, this report covers all the work done to-date in preparing the workbooks and training courses. This report will be used as a template for the final report. The evaluation forms from the four training courses delivered late last year have been reviewed and small changes have been made to the training workshops in order to improve the efficiency of delivery. Workshop workbooks have been completed and made available to industry. Negotiations are currently being held to deliver two more workshops to bush foods producers in Australia, the negotiations are being held through two industry bodies. A review of legislative requirements related to bush foods has been completed. Work is continuing on an easy to use report on the requirements of food safety legislation in each state and how different members of the industry (eg pickers, growers, sellers, and processors) can meet those requirements. A report on labelling requirements and on opportunities to use labelling to convey authenticity of products is being produced for industry.

Project Title:	Water relations of parasitic quandong and acacia host species
RIRDC Project No.:	UA-68A
Start Date:	01/11/2004
Finish Date:	30/11/2005
Researcher:	Dr Jennifer Watling
Organisation:	The University of Adelaide
Phone:	(08) 8303 6208
Fax:	(08) 8303 6222
Email:	jennifer.watling@adelaide.edu.au
Objectives	·3 Quantification of water and nutrient relations, and gas exchange characteristics of the quandong: acacia association across seasons and with 8 different acacia host species.
Current Progress	Due to delays in the allocation of funding for this work, initial planning did not commence until March 2005. Experimental work on the project will commence in June with the first field trip to the Arid Lands Botanic Garden at Pt Augusta, SA. The aim of this trip is to assess performance of quandong on a range of Acacia hosts during winter. On this trip we will measure pre-dawn and midday water potentials of quandong and 8 different Acacia host species. We will also measure photosynthesis, stomatal conductance and transpiration using gas-exchange techniques, and collect leaf material for nutrient analysis. Plant stress will also be assessed using chlorophyll fluorescence techniques. A similar trip is planned for the summer season early in 2006.

Project Title:	Functional properties of Australian bushfoods
RIRDC Project No.:	UCS-29A
Start Date:	01/02/02
Finish Date:	30/06/06
Researcher:	Dr Jian Zhao
Organisation:	Charles Sturt University School of Wine and Food Sciences Locked Bag 588 Wagga Wagga NSW 2678
Phone:	(02) 6933 2968
Fax:	(02) 6933 2107
Email:	jzhao@csu.edu.au
Objectives	To promote market growth and enhance profitability of the Australian bushfood industry by: ·4 generating reliable data on the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of bushfoods to add on to the existing knowledge and anecdotal information on their functionality; ·5 expanding the application of bushfoods using the research outcomes; and ·6 developing antimicrobial, antioxidant and emulsifying agents of commercial grade for use as natural substitutes for their synthetic counterparts.
Current Progress	Significant progress has been made in the project over the past 12 months. We have completed the work on studying the emulsifying properties of wattle seeds. We have prepared aqueous extracts from wattle seeds and used the extracts to make emulsions with varying proportions of oil and water. The emulsifying properties of the extracts were examined under a range of food processing conditions, including homogenising pressure, pH, ionic strength and temperature. Results show that wattle seed extracts have strong emulsifying capacities and the emulsions formed are stable under typical food processing conditions and have excellent thermal stability. These results indicate that wattle seed extracts could be a promising natural emulsifying agent applicable to a variety of food products. Furthermore, we have isolated and fractionated wattle seed proteins using water, alcohol and dilute acid sequentially, and characterised their properties using a number of techniques, including capillary electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE and differential scanning calorimetry. Results show that wattle seed protein consists of a wide array of polypeptides with the majority being found in the alcohol fraction. We have also made progress in identifying the active components that are responsible for the antioxidant properties of native plant foods and work in this area is continuing.

Project Title:	Development of new root vegetable crops from Southern Western Australia's diverse tuberous flora
RIRDC Project No.:	UWA-86A
Start Date:	1/12/2004
Finish Date:	30/11/2008
Researcher:	Dr Geoff Woodall
Organisation:	Centre of Excellence in NRM, University of Western Australia, Albany
Phone:	(08) 9892 8427
Fax:	(08) 9841 2707
Email:	gwoodall@agric.wa.gov.au
Objectives	·1 This project aims to systematically assess the horticultural potential of southern Western Australia’s diverse tuberous flora and commence commercialization of promising species as new vegetable crops.
Current Progress	The flora of Western Australia contains an extraordinary number of species that form root tubers. Product, product utilisation and horticultural attributes of tuberous species were assessed leading to the selection of three species for further study: Platysace deflexa (Apiaceae), Ipomoea calobra (Convolvulaceae) and Haemodorum spicatum (Haemodoraceae). One other species may be added if further exploration is successful. Product appraisal is ongoing but limited by supply, that is, a lack of cultivated product. A commercialisation strategy is currently being developed for each target species. Prior to this project it was not known what conditions were needed for tuber formation, or how long tuber formation takes and what the yield of tubers would be? The most encouraging result so far has related to tuber formation and yield. Cultivated Platysace deflexa (Apiaceae) and Ipomoea calobra (Convolvulaceae) have produced numerous "marketable" tubers in less than 18 months. The first low input, field cultivated (unirrigated) plants of Platysace deflexa yielded approximately 1kg of marketable product per plant suggesting that a planting density of 2,000-4,000 stems per hectare would yield 2-4t of marketable product per hectare. Product harvested from cultivated plants was sweeter than product harvested from wild plants. A market for Haemodorum spicatum (Haemodoraceae) as a spice has been identified and cultivation studies have commenced.

Project Title:	Commercialisation of boab tubers
RIRDC Project No.:	DAW-108A
Start Date:	01/07/2003
Finish Date:	30/06/2005
Researcher:	Mr Peter Johnson
Organisation:	Department of Agriculture (WA)
Phone:	(08) 9166 4000
Fax:	(08) 9166 4066
Email:	pjohnson@agric.wa.gov.au
Objectives	·7 Identify potential market placement for boab and promote the Boab's roots and leaves through marketers and restaurants and other media such as television ·8 Identify a range of culinary uses for the product ·9 To liaise with potential industry participants formulating a market strategy to launch the product into the mainstream market ·10 Identify techniques to improve seed germination ·11 Identify the best practise techniques for mechanisation of the boab crop, including optimum planting densities
Current Progress	A number of media outlets including television, radio, magazine and newspaper articles have been presented creating a wider awareness of the new product. Tests were conducted to find the best seed germination techniques for this particular crop. A technique of scarification has been undertaken that has increased the germination by up to 70% if not more after the seed is graded. The Trial Cropping of the plant has identified the best mechanised methods for planting and indicated the opportunities for mechanical harvesting. The marketing phase of the product development has brought together a number of industry players from market agents, to businesses, restaurants and media contacts. A number of food industry people have been experimenting with potential uses of the product including processing a recipe booklet has been developed containing many of the new uses. A promotional program is currently being developed with several leading retail outlets, this will include in store demonstrations. Work is also being conducted developing the supply chain for the product.

Project Title:	Developing best management practices and resolving minor permit issues for the Australian herb and spice industry
RIRDC Project No.:	AUC-4A
Start Date:	01/07/2004
Finish Date:	01/12/2006
Researcher:	Jane Parker
Organisation:	Australian Herb & Spice Industry Association Ltd
Phone:	(07) 5483 2195
Fax:	(07) 5483 2196
Email:	qjcparker@bigpond.com
Objectives	·1 To establish and develop a toolbox of minor use permits on herb & spice crops suitable for both domestic and export markets in line with integrated pest management (IPM) strategies across all production systems
Current Progress	A review of the Australian Pesticide & Veterinary Medicine’s (APVMA) management of minor use permits has assisted the project move forward in a timely manner. Continual ongoing liaison with APVMA has resulted in 35 applications underway for crop protectants which have existing permits in vegetable or similar crops either in Australia or overseas. A further 34 are being assessed for future application and 24 new chemistry products are also being investigated by this project. This large number of crop protectants has been specifically picked to assist in the implementation of IPM strategies and Resistance Management Strategies (RMS) across the major pests and diseases affecting Australian grown Herbs & Spices A National Residue Survey program has been initiated to allow easier access to export markets. Crop protectants have been applied and these crops will be randomly tested for adherence to current FSANZ standards. Once a certificate of compliance is issued these products are then ready for export. An industry web site has been developed with a quarterly member’s newsletter to disseminate information as it becomes available. To assist in the development of best management practices and further information dissemination, IPM and RMS strategies and water & post harvest management updates, will be available at a conference workshop to be held on September 12^th in Brisbane.

Project Title:	Improving harvesting, processing and marketing of Australian capers
RIRDC Project No.:	CAU-2A
Start Date:	01/07/2004
Finish Date:	01/07/2005
Researcher:	Mr Jonathon Trewartha
Organisation:	The Australian Caper Company Pty Ltd
Phone:	(08) 8569 2360
Fax:	(08) 8569 2360
Email:	enquiries@australiancapers.com.au
Objectives	·2 To further understand the current Australian market for caper products.
Current Progress	Three key areas for research this year have been focussed on; price of product, continuity of supply and, reduction of unit labour cost. Market research is currently being undertaken to gain an understanding of the market and pricing of capers. This survey is being completed by consumers in the form of a questionnaire which is distributed with Australian Caper products through retail outlets and offers an incentive offered to return completed surveys. Consumers can select whether to complete the survey online at www.australiancapers.com.au or via a hard copy to be returned by mail. In addition a tasting of capers at the Adelaide Market is also being conducted in conjunction with the survey. Wholesalers and distributors are being surveyed via a telephone questionnaire or in face to face interviews. This is progressing well and is producing useful information. This information is being used to define the domestic market and estimate how many locally produced capers it can sustain. The sorting plant has been designed based on a tested prototype. The final design is currently being built to specification. It will be trialed in June. A mechanised sorting machine will significantly reduce the labour cost of sorting while maintaining the product appearance. The picking costs on the three year old plants have reduced this year and are expected to fall further as the plants mature. Two separate information flyers have been developed. One flyer is used to promote Australian capers to wholesalers and retailers and is usually displayed alongside Australian Caper products on retail shelves. A flyer to promote and encourages growers has been designed in preparation for distribution before the field day that is being hosted this year.

Project Title:	Production of high quality export green tea through integrated management
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-227A
Start Date:	14/08/2004
Finish Date:	30/11/2007
Researcher:	Dr Vong Nguyen
Organisation:	NSW Department of Primary Industries Gosford Horticultural Institute Locked Bag 26 GOSFORD NSW 2250
Phone:	(02) 4348 1927
Fax:	(02) 4348 1910
Email:	vong.nguyen@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	· To determine the feasibility of different propagation, establishment and cultivation methods on green tea production, weed management and insect and disease management.
Current Progress	The project is progressing well. We successfully completed all green tea harvests (September – March) upon which several shading experiments have been conducted. Shade cloth of different grades shaded mature green plants of different green tea varieties for different lengths of time before harvest. The individual lots were processed separately and green tea quality assessed. As expected, the results showed there were significant differences in tea quality between the harvest times from September to March 2005. In addition the shade treatments were beneficial in improving final tea quality. This was particularly the case with the first harvest, high shade treatment. This will be further investigated this coming growing season. The propagation trials have commenced with experiments established to examine the effect of pot-type and the timing of propagation on cutting survival and necessity for winter propagation bed heating. Regular pest and disease monitoring is providing monthly reports during the season on the pest status of the plantation at Somersby. New varieties have been propagated and will be planted in the trial plantation. The project has been in regular contact with other researchers and industry around Australia. The project team will be visiting the Victorian green tea industry and Ito En (a Japanese green tea company processing the green tea in Victoria) in June 2005 to discuss the project, co-operation and the Australian green tea industry.

Project Title:	Northern Australia Cocoa Development (Stage 2)
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-301A
Start Date:	01/07/2005
Finish Date:	30/11/2005
Researcher:	Mr Craig Lemin
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Centre for Wet Tropics Agriculture PO Box 20 SOUTH JOHNSTONE QLD 4859
Phone:	(07) 4064 1170
Fax:	(07) 4064 2249
Email:	craig.lemin@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	·3 The feasibility and economics of cocoa production in northern Australia will continue to be investigated. Yield potential of PNG hybrids will be assessed in two potential growing regions (tropical Northern Territory and north Queensland). Several clones will be imported and maintained for preliminary evaluation. Agronomic aspects of production in northern Australia will be recorded and management guidelines developed. Technology for mechanization of pod splitting and bean extraction will be developed. Labour requirements for cultural operations (particularly harvesting) will be assessed. Information gathered will allow refinement of the cocoa economic model and provide a decision support for assessing economic viability of cocoa production in northern Australia.
Current Progress	The project has continued with reinvigoration of support from Cadbury Schweppes and amidst commercialization activities by Cocoa Australia Pty Ltd. An independent review of the project was commissioned by RIRDC and DPI&F in December 2004. The review found that good technical progress had been made in the project but this information had limited commercial value and the financial proposition for cocoa production was marginal based on cocoa commodity price outlook and estimated production costs. Nonetheless, key recommendations from the review are a) support on-going monitoring of the current cocoa trials to determine the yield profile to maturity; b) further develop the pod splitter and commercialize; c) make knowledge and know-how available to an emerging industry in a way that is acceptable to the collaborators; d) wind-up the alliance of collaborators and form new alliances as appropriate focused on achieving commercial outcomes so as to attract additional government and commercial investment. A meeting of project collaborators and Cocoa Australia was held in Brisbane in April 2005 in an attempt to get some shared dialogue. The important decisions at the meeting were a) agreement to submit a full R&D proposal to RIRDC to continue the Qld. Based trials for a further 2 years until July 2007 (with Cadbury support); b) ceasing full evaluation of the NT trial at July 2005 with only strategic harvests conducted until December 2005 using carry over funds; c) agreement that DPI&F enter a contract with Cocoa Australia for the provision of growing and establishment information and advice; d) agreement for material from the program to be made available to Cocoa Australia under provisions of Material Transfer Agreements; e) DPI&F/Cadbury to develop options for processing beans from Cadbury-linked pilot commercialization trials in the Innisfail district; f) future R&D activities be considered as either "generic" versus "commercial in confidence" and for DPI&F to broker collaboration with industry interests as appropriate; g) future R&D activities with RIRDC performed on the basis of an industry R&D strategic plan; h) conduct a "forum" bringing together industry interests to brief them on developments and examine constraints and opportunities.

Project Title:	Influence of processing on the flavour of Australian coffee
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-309A
Start Date:	01/07/2003
Finish Date:	01/07/2006
Researcher:	James Drinnan
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries
Phone:	(07) 4048 4647
Fax:	(07) 4092 3593
Email:	james.drinnan@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	·1 Conduct an audit of the processing equipment and system currently being employed by the industry. ·2 Determine the influence of various processing techniques on the flavour profile of Australian coffee. ·3 Improve the understanding of coffee growers to the importance of the stages of processing in determining quality.
Current Progress	During the 2004 coffee harvesting and processing season (July –November) processed coffee samples were collected from several coffee growers located in North Queensland and northern New South Wales. About seven processing styles were collected from each of five properties. The samples collected fall into the following styles. Washed - Fruit is pulped and there is complete mechanical removal of the mucilage. This can be achieved with an aquapulper or demucilager. In these samples there is no fermentation. Two of the farms in the trial use aquapulpers and three use demucilagers. The samples were oven dried. Semi Washed - Fruit is pulped and there is partial removal of the mucilage. This can be achieved with an aquapulper or demucilager. The coffee was then oven dried. Unwashed - Fruit is pulped but no mucilage is removed by mechanical means (i.e. washed). The coffee can then be dried like this or the mucilage can be partially or fully removed by fermenting in water. Samples of the three possible products were collected and oven dried. Natural – Fruit is dried in the flesh (no pulping). This can occur on the tree when the fruit overmatures and dries on the tree (bundi) or after harvest where red fruit is dried in the sun, or mechanically in ovens. In this case fermentation occurs as the fruit dries. Flesh is removed during hulling. It was necessary to remove the green immature fruit from these samples. Natural Washed – Fruit that is dried in the flesh (natural) is soaked until soft and then pulped. No samples were collected of this product this year. Samples of between 50 – 100 kg were collected of each processing style which gave between 10 and 20 kg of green bean. Samples were stored for a couple of months to cure. Samples have been hulled, polished, size graded and sent to a range of professional tasters to evaluate the cupping quality (acidity, aroma, body and flavour).

Project Title:	Developing better nutritional strategies for mechanical tea production
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-313A
Start Date:	01/12/2003
Finish Date:	01/12/2006
Researcher:	James Drinnan
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries
Phone:	(07) 4048 4647
Fax:	(07) 4092 3593
Email:	james.drinnan@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	·1 Improve the understanding of tea growers on the nutritional requirements of mechanically harvested tea to maximise yields. ·2 Identify micronutrient deficiencies and the best methods to alleviate. ·3 Increase the average yields of tea producers to help meet the increasing demand; this will also reduce the costs of production. ·4 Improve the efficiency of fertiliser use thereby minimising the environmental impacts of current and future fertiliser practices.
Current Progress	Three farms have been selected for the fertiliser trial work. On each farm, two blocks have been chosen which are of similar size, soil type, age, pruning cycle and variety and which can be fertilized and harvested separately. The blocks range in size from 2-13ha. The two blocks on each farm will be used to compare the newly developed fertiliser program with the current fertilising program used on the farm. By conducting the trial work across a few farms, a range in the levels of management can be superimposed on the fertiliser treatments. Information on the growth cycle, yield, leaf and soil nutrient levels are being collected. This information will be used to assess the economics of the new fertiliser program. In developing a fertiliser program, leaf and soil nutrient levels of tea plantations in North Queensland were collected. Samples were taken from the trial blocks and combined with samples that growers had collected previously. This information gave an idea of the range in levels that exist across the farms. This information together with leaf and soil nutrient levels recommended in the literature for North Queensland and overseas and discussions with soil scientists have allowed optimum nutrient levels to be defined for the nutrient budget. By using a nutrient budget and yield data from the growers, theoretical ideal fertiliser rates have been determined. A study of the growth cycle has allowed optimum frequency and timing of fertiliser applications. The fertiliser mix is being blended by a local fertiliser agent.

Project Title:	Development of a range of pesticides for use in coffee
RIRDC Project No.:	SAG-5A
Start Date:	01/07/2003
Finish Date:	30/11/2006
Researcher:	Mr Keith Lewis
Organisation:	Serve-Ag Pty Ltd
Phone:	(07) 4091 3253
Fax:	(07) 4091 4027
Email:	biofield@bigpond.net.au
Objectives	·1 To generate data to support registration submissions for a range of pesticides in coffee.
Current Progress	Applications have been lodged with the APVMA for the re issue of permits for Petroleum oil, Basta (Glufosinate), Glyphosate, Copper products, Mimic (Tebufenozide), and Supracide (Methidathion). New permit applications covering Chlorpyrifos and Stomp (Pendimethalin) have similarly been lodged with the APVMA. Under new data protection legislation, many minor use permits may automatically be transferred to the product labels, and it is likely that most of the above will be covered. Permits are now to be issued for extended periods, and can be renewed after expiry. Thus, no further action will be required with regard to the abovementioned products for the time being. A number of other products require efficacy and/or residue data before they can be considered for permitted use in coffee. These are Success, Applaud, Prodigy and Admiral. As a result of work conducted under this project, the manufacturers of Success have made a submission to the APVMA for inclusion of coffee on their label. It seems likely that coffee will be included on the Success label in 2005. This might be viewed as an early achievement of this project Residue work carried out under GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) protocols has commenced for Applaud, Admiral and Prodigy and efficacy work will be conducted as opportunities arise.

Project Title:	Australian paprika: breeding & industry development
RIRDC Project No.:	US-136A
Start Date:	01/07/2004
Finish Date:	30/11/2007
Researcher:	Prof Peter Sharp
Organisation:	The University of Sydney
Phone:	(02) 9351 8803
Fax:	(02) 9351 8875
Email:	peters@camden.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	·2 To develop commercial cultivars of Paprika for Australia.
Current Progress	During the 2004-2005 season the paprika breeding program ran a Variety and Strain Trial (VS1), and undertook selection of advanced generations, made interspecific and backcrosses, ran an F1 trial, and progressed Single Seed Descent populations from F2, F3, F4 generations, and did commercial trials. The VS1 trial included three candidates registered for Plant Variety Protection (Cerise Sweet, Sunired and Earlysuni), their parents and as a control the PVR protected cultivar Sz80. Two of the registered lines (Sunired and Earlysuni) were not sufficiently uniform, and were not accepted for PBR. Cerise Sweet performed well and was accepted for PBR. A total of 51 promising lines were included in the VS1 trial to estimate their yield and uniformity. Most of these lines displayed high yield and uniformity and are under laboratory analysis of pigment content for further selection. A considerable number of interspecific crosses and backcrosses were carried out to transfer detachability. Cooperating with Szeged Paprika Research Station, Hungary we obtained 32 F1 lines, which were sown as together with some of the F1s made at The University of Sydney. Commercial trials of Cerise Sweet and Sunired were located in Victoria by our industrial partner for seed increase and trial oleoresin production.

Project Title:	Laying the groundwork for a new rural industry - Stevia rebaudiana
RIRDC Project No.:	UCQ-17A
Start Date:	01/07/2002
Finish Date:	31/07/2005
Researcher:	Prof David Midmore
Organisation:	Central Queensland University
Phone:	(07) 4930 9770
Fax:	(07) 4930 9255
Email:	d.midmore@cqu.edu.au
Objectives	·3 To lay the basis for a rural industry that will replace imported artificial sweetener with a risk-free natural sweetener. This will achieved by: ·4 Accessing information on food safety issues and determine the likely acceptance of steviosides by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (formerly ANZFA) for use in foodstuffs. ·5 Accessing germplasm from diverse sources (particularly Japan, Taiwan, China, Korea, India and Paraguay) and test them under a range of environmental conditions, leading to quantifiable production outputs on which to evaluate the viability of the industry.
Current Progress	This 2.5year project has now run for 3 years. The major achievement of the last year has been the application to FSANZ (Food Standards Australia New Zealand), by the project, to have steviol glycosides (stevioside) approved as a food ingredient. This application will be considered by FSANZ in 2006. A decision by the WHO/FAO expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) to endorse the safety of steviol glycosides will assist our application. Agronomic trials identified production difficulties, particularly for tropical areas, to ensure that crops will reliably ratoon with multiple stems and so produce for a second and third year. Time of harvest and possibly height of harvest would appear to be important. This was not a problem in southern latitudes, where shortage of days over 25 degrees C restricted production. Weed control also requires more work and the avoidance of fungal infection, especially sclerotinia, will need care. Leaf analysis by HPLC still presents problems. Further experience and refinements to sample preparation and filtering procedures are needed for reliable results. Although there is no funding, work will continue on leaf analysis and crop management to better predict the performance of stevia as a crop. For this, additional seedlings are being produced for more farm plots.

Project Title:	Evaluation of jojoba germplasm in different environments
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-206A
Start Date:	01/07/2002
Finish Date:	31/07/2005
Researcher:	Mr Peter Milthorpe
Organisation:	NSW Department of Primary Industries
Phone:	(02) 6895 1016
Fax:	(02) 6895 2688
Email:	peter.milthorpe@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To evaluate the response of flowering and fruiting of a diverse, but known, range of jojoba germplasm to changes in climate across Australia. ·2 To provide benchmarks to assist researchers and growers in the selection of new varieties as well as give confidence in recommending where new selections are best suited.
Current Progress	Three years data have now been collected and the data is being collated. Not all data sets are complete as personal circumstances of some co-operators resulted in gaps in the data due to their absence. Drought conditions have been prevalent for much of the study period at all sites, and only two of the sites had restricted irrigation. Consequently plant growth has been less than ideal in some cases. The initial results show that for the five sites in eastern Australia there is reasonable consistency in expected response from the different germplasm material. Flowering in 2002 was early at all sites and 2003 was late. However, there are some responses that are difficult to interpret, particularly separating the impact of drought from temperature stress. Generally the germ plasm with the least chill requirement performed more predictably at the northern site than at the other sites whereas the germplasm with the greatest chill requirement was least consistent in its behaviour. Data analysis is continuing.

Project Title:	Harvest timing, sensory analysis and shelf life for optimal olive oil quality
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-237A
Start Date:	01/01/2005
Finish Date:	31/10/2007
Researcher:	Dr Rod Mailer
Organisation:	NSW Department of Primary Industries WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650
Phone:	(02) 6938 1818
Fax:	(02) 6938 1809
Email:	rodney.mailer@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To study the relationship between harvest timing and oil chemical and sensory quality at the time and over time in storage, to determine the optimum harvest periods for the best commercial characteristics.
Current Progress	The excellent layout of the orchard, irrigation facilities and cooperation from Rich Glen Olives has seen this project commence with no delays or problems. Irrigation treatments using micro irrigation was commenced in September 2004. The four treatments include full irrigation, partial root zone drying, deficit from February to April, and deficit from February to green maturity and then full irrigation. There are to be four harvests, two within the normal window of commercial harvesting and a very early and very late harvest to compare the changes with maturity. Sampling commenced in late April with both olive fruit for extraction at Wagga and oil which had been extracted by commercial processing at Rich Glen with their new Westfalia oil processing equipment. The second of four harvests was carried out on 10/5/05. Samples have been placed into storage at Wagga and will be separated in line with normal commercial processing conditions and analysed as planned for both chemical and organoleptic quality. Rich Glen is monitoring yield and cold process extraction oil content of the olives. The oil will then be tested for normal quality tests in the laboratory but particularly for polyphenols which contribute a major part of the true characteristics of the olives including flavour, colour and shelf life stability.

Project Title:	A survey of Australian olive cultivars to determine compliance to international standards
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-239A
Start Date:	01/01/2005
Finish Date:	30/11/2006
Researcher:	Dr Rod Mailer
Organisation:	NSW Department of Primary Industries WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650
Phone:	(02) 6938 1818
Fax:	(02) 6938 1809
Email:	rodney.mailer@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	·1 This project aims to survey the chemical profile of the 10 major Australian cultivars to identify cultivars or conditions which contribute to unacceptable oil quality.
Current Progress	The design for this experiment has been done in collaboration with the Australian Olive Association. The original application aimed at analyzing the 10 most common cultivars from commercial olive groves within Australia at three environmentally different sites. From further discussion the AOA have nominated 9 cultivars: Arbequina, Barnea, Coratina, Coreggiola, Frantoio, Koroneiki, Leccino, Manzanillo, and Picual Samples are being sourced from four, rather than three sites. The regions are: 1. Northern NSW and Southern Queensland 2. Western Australia - North of Perth 3. Northern and Central Victoria 4. Southern Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania Seasonal conditions have resulted in a marked delay in harvesting in 2005. Samples are currently being harvested, packaged and transported overnight to Wagga Wagga. They are processed the next morning and oil stored in sealed containers for analysis. These samples will eventually be analysed for all of the minor components used to detect adulteration in olive oil. Samples from sites 1 and 2 have already been received. Sampling and oil extraction will be completed by June 2005. Analysis, due to the number and complexity of the tests, and the large number of samples (72), will not be complete until August 2005. AOA will pay the pledged funding of $23,242 + GST by May 31.

Project Title:	Evaluation of hemp and kenaf breeding lines in tropical and sub-tropical environments
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-292A
Start Date:	01/07/2002
Finish Date:	30/11/2005
Researcher:	Mr Brett Weeden
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld) Agronomist Southedge Research Station PO Box 174 MAREEBA QLD 4880
Phone:	(07) 4093 8303
Fax:	(07) 4093 2237
Email:	brett.weeden@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	· To facilitate the establishment of a bast fibre industry in Australia by identifying suitable high-yielding low-drug content cultivars of hemp and suitable high-yielding cultivars of kenaf that are adapted to sub-tropical and tropical environments in Quee
Current Progress	Replicated field trials of 5 cultivars of kenaf and 7 cultivars of industrial hemp were conducted at 2 QDPI&F research stations during 2004/05. At Southedge (tropical environment) the kenaf trial was a repeat of the 2003/04 trial with 5 cultivars planted at either 3 or 4 rows on a 1 m bed between 1.5 m wheel tracks. The kenaf grew well and was harvested on 13/4/05. The industrial hemp trial also grew well with the new selection of cultivars giving better yields than those studied in 2002/03. The hemp trial was harvested on 2/3/05. Both these kenaf and hemp trials were repeated at Gatton research station as representative of a sub-tropical environment. The kenaf trial grew well and was harvested on 27/4/05. The emergence and growth problems experienced in the 2003/04 hemp trial here were overcome and growth and yields were greatly improved. The hemp trial was harvested on 16/3/05. Final yield data for these trials are yet to be collated and analysed. Field trials for this project have now been completed with the final report due in November 2005.

Project Title:	Cross-pollination in olive cultivars
RIRDC Project No.:	UA-65A
Start Date:	01/01/2004
Finish Date:	01/12/2006
Researcher:	Prof Margaret Sedgley
Organisation:	The University of Adelaide
Phone:	(08) 8303 7249
Fax:	(08) 8303 7116
Email:	margaret.sedgley@adelaide.edu.au
Objectives	·2 To identify compatible pollen donors for the major cultivars grown in Australia
Current Progress	Five commercial cultivars, growing in two orchards, were examined to determine which cultivars in the grove were providing pollen and causing fruit set. The cultivars studied were; Kalamata, Corregiola, Barnea, Mission and Koroneiki. Flowering times, weather conditions and pollen vitality were recorded over a two-year period when fruit was collected for analysis. DNA was extracted from the embryos obtained from the fruit. Each embryo was fingerprinted with eight microsatellite markers to identify the pollen donor. Paternity assignment was based on the parental contribution of alleles in the embryo using the ‘most-likely method’. Compatible pollen donors for the five cultivars were identified for 800 embryos collected from a commercial olive grove in the Adelaide hills. Different pollen donors were identified for each of the maternal cultivars indicating that cross-compatibilities and incompatibilities varied between the cultivars studied. Cross-pollination was the principal method of fertilisation, as selfing was observed in only two of the embryos studied and both of these were from the cultivar Mission. Analysis of embryos collected from the same cultivars at the second site is in progress.

Project Title:	Production of bioactive phenols from olive processing waste streams
RIRDC Project No.:	UCS-32A
Start Date:	01/09/2002
Finish Date:	31/05/2006
Researcher:	Dr Paul Prenzler
Organisation:	Charles Sturt University School of Science and Technology Locked Bag 588 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2678
Phone:	(02) 6933 2540
Fax:	(02) 6933 2737
Email:	pprenzler@csu.eud.au
Objectives	To investigate the potential to add value to process waste streams, thereby creating a sustainable and integrated Australian olive industry with a number of product streams. The outcomes will be: · A survey of waste streams from olive oil processing to identify bioactive fractions; · Isolation, identification and quantification of the commercially useful bioactive compounds; · Knowledge of the impact of varietal, regional, seasonal and processing differences on the composition of waste streams and the bioactivity, based on Australian conditions; · The investigation of strategies for the extraction of compounds of commercial interest from olive industry waste streams, thus enabling the re-utilisation of the residue; · Trained personnel to meet the future demands of the olive industry.
Current Progress	A feasibility study in collaboration with another RIRDC project at NSWDPI assessed the effect of varietal, seasonal, and processing variation on the recovery of bioactive phenols. Olive mill waste (OMW) samples from five different olive cultivars at four different harvesting times in the olive oil processing season and samples collected from two phase processing and three phase processing were analysed for their phenolic content and their antioxidant activity. Preliminary data analysis revealed a quantitative change more than a qualitative one that varies amongst cultivars. Fractionation of OMW extracts and screening for biological activities were performed. Antioxidant activity screening using four different bioassays was done. Two fractions demonstrated high antioxidant activities compared with pure standard phenolic antioxidants. Sub-fractionation and separation of the active compounds will be performed by the end of 2005. Antibacterial activity for the crude extracts was not encouraging for further investigations. A critical review article titled "Bioactivity and analysis of biophenols recovered from olive mill waste" was published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food chemistry in April 2005. Two other papers are in progress addressing the analysis and recovery of biophenols from OMW.

Project Title:	Quality enhancement of Australian extra-virgin olive oils
RIRDC Project No.:	UCS-33A
Start Date:	01/09/2002
Finish Date:	31/05/2006
Researcher: